Shuttering Ply
(6 Products)Shuttering plywood is an engineered sheet specifically designed for use in formwork (shuttering). It is engineered to meet strict structural specifications, ensuring it can reliably withstand the significant pressures and stresses imposed by wet concrete during both pouring and curing. With a smooth, resin-treated surface that minimises moisture absorption and surface imprint imperfections, shuttering plywood is essential for achieving precise, uniform finishes on concrete forms used in constructing walls, floors, columns, beams, and foundation slabs.
What Is Shuttering Plywood?
Shuttering plywood works as a temporary mould to shape and support wet concrete until it hardens. Cut and assembled into precise panels, it forms a rigid framework for structures like walls, columns, beams, and foundations.
Its primary purpose is to provide structural support and maintain the desired shape and dimensions of the concrete during the pouring and curing process. As concrete is poured, the plywood resists high pressure and moisture without warping or breaking, owing to its multi-layered structure and water-resistant properties.
Its smooth surface ensures minimal adhesion to the concrete, allowing easy removal once the structure sets. Reusable across multiple pours, it provides efficiency and consistency in construction while delivering a clean, uniform finish to the hardened concrete.
Understanding The Shuttering Process
Formwork is the general term for any temporary or permanent mould used in concrete construction, whereas shuttering refers specifically to the temporary mould or frame that holds wet concrete in place, particularly in vertical elements such as walls and columns.
While all shuttering is a form of formwork, not all formwork is shuttering. For example, the formwork used for horizontal elements like slabs or beams may not be classified as shuttering.
Shuttering's main purpose is to support the wet concrete until it gains sufficient strength to stand on its own. The quality of the formwork can directly impact the quality of the finished concrete structure, as even minor defects or misalignments in the formwork can lead to imperfections in the concrete.
Applications
- General structural use and general construction
- Renovation work
- Hoarding
- Shuttering
- Packaging
- Protecting flooring
- Structural and non-structural building work
- Provides a solid wall/ temporary structure while concrete sets
- Suitable for interior applications
For exterior use, the panel should be treated with a suitable wood treatment/sealant to ensure that all edges are properly sealed.
Benefits
- Smooth coating on both faces
- High-quality concrete cast surface
- Strong and durable, yet lightweight and easy to work with
- Resistant to moisture and rot, making it ideal for use in damp or wet conditions
- Weather-resistant
- A cost-effective solution for many construction projects
- Standard Sheet Sizes: 2400mm x 1220mm (8ft x 4ft)
C+/C Meaning
In the context of shuttering plywood, C+/C grading indicates the quality of the plywood used for formwork (creating moulds for concrete). Specifically:
- C+ (front face): The front side of the plywood has a relatively smooth surface with minor defects, but it is still suitable for forming concrete moulds where appearance is not the primary concern.
- C (back face): The back side has more noticeable defects, such as larger knots or voids, but it is still structurally sound for use in shuttering.
C Grade plywood is best used for construction purposes where high levels of strength are required. The material often features discolouration, splits, defects and open knots.
Frequently Asked Shuttering Plywood Questions
Is Shuttering Plywood Reusable?
Yes, shuttering plywood is reusable. It is designed to withstand the stresses of multiple concrete pours when properly maintained. Regular cleaning and careful handling help extend its lifespan, although its reusability may vary based on the type of plywood and the conditions of use.
What Is The Difference Between Shuttering Ply and Normal Ply?
Shuttering ply and normal ply differ primarily in their intended uses and manufacturing processes. Shuttering ply is specifically designed for use in concrete formwork, featuring high durability and water resistance, which allows for multiple reuses in construction settings.
In contrast, normal ply, or general-purpose plywood, is used in a wide range of applications such as furniture making, interior design, and panelling. It varies in grade and finish depending on the specific use, typically being less durable and water-resistant than shuttering ply.
These distinctions make shuttering ply more suitable for heavy-duty construction tasks, while normal ply serves well for every day, less demanding applications.
Is Shuttering Plywood Waterproof?
Shuttering plywood is specifically designed to be utilised as a temporary waterproofing barrier. It is commonly used during construction projects as a means to protect a structure's interior from water damage while the exterior is being worked on.
What Makes Shuttering Ply So Dense?
Shuttering ply owes its density to at least nine layers of tightly packed core veneers. These veneers are compressed using high-pressure machines at extremely high temperatures.
Because of this density, shuttering plywood is exclusively used in applications where it's required to withstand massive loads.
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